Pridham 31 January 1918

In this letter from Lawrence Pridham to his family, he writes once again about receiving parcels which were very important to soldiers in the the front lines, mentions raids during his trip to London and promises to send a picture soon.

In his letter he refers to his comrades playing “Pedro“. This was a popular card game in the late 19th century that went out of fashion with the rise of Auction Bridge.

You can click on any letter page to see a larger image and a transcription is available at the bottom of this page..

Page 1 of a letter from Lawrence Pridham to his Uncle Will from France on 31 January 1918Page 2 of a letter from Lawrence Pridham to his Uncle Will from France on 31 January 1918Envelope of a letter from Lawrence Pridham to his Uncle Will from France on 31 January 1918

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France
Jan 31/18

It behooves me to take my pen in hand and to expeciate [sic] my sincere thanks for the many pcls [parcels] and good things you have bestowed on me in this hour of dire necessity.

Phils fine pcls arrived O.K. and also one from you to-day dated Jan 5th.

I may say that I have just arrived from London commonly known as the “Smokie”. Please excuse my writings as the rest are having a wild game of Pedro [a popular card game] on the table.

I had a pretty fair time in London but would have preferred it at home. We had two raids while I was there. You most likely have the news by now about John Bull.

Will drop you a picture in the near future. You will excuse my short letter but I don’t know what to say at the present.